Winter presents brisk mornings and dark nights that can frustrate even the most enthusiastic fitness devotee. It’s cold and dark outside so often the last thing we feel like doing is exercise.
However, no excuses are valid to stop exercising during the colder months. Maintaining an active fitness routine throughout winter will assist with keeping your energy levels up to stay fit and help beat those winter blues.
We’ve come up with some ideas to ensure you continue to get some fun exercise during the colder months.
Go dancing!
Joining a local dance class is an extremely fun way to stay warm by exercising indoors with your partner. Whether it be Latin, salsa, modern or freestyle dance, you’ll be sure to break a serious sweat. And, who knows? After a winter of weekly dance lessons you might even be ready for a guest spot on ‘So You Think You Can Dance?’
Run
Don’t let the cold weather derail your morning or afternoon run. Taking a run in the crisp clean winter air can still be an invigorating start to the day or chance to unwind after a long day. Just make sure you wear extra layers of clothes and maybe alter the route you take for a change in scenery. And if the thought of an outdoor run gives you chills, then the treadmill at your local gym might be the way to go.
Try yoga
Yoga is an excellent indoor activity where you and your friends can hide from the elements on cold windy wintery days while enjoying a vigorous workout. It is also the perfect activity for reducing stress as yoga focuses equally on the mind as well as the body.
Include the kids
Whether you are walking, cycling or playing a sport; don’t forget to involve the kids in your exercise routine whenever you can. It will provide extra motivation for you during winter to make it a regular activity that is rewarding for the entire family!
Hydrate
Without the harsh summer sun exposure you might not feel as thirsty but it is still just as important to be properly hydrated during exercise in winter so be sure to drink plenty of water before and during your work out. Afterwards you can treat yourself to a protein packed Zymil smoothie to replenish your body’s fluids afterwards and assist with recovery.
By staying active with some of our tips and avoiding the easy choice of winter hibernation on the couch, you’ll be fit and happy all year long!
If you have some winter workout tips of your own, please share them with us!
DIANE LOGAN
I note this page still refers to WINTER – we are much closer to SUMMER than winter – perhaps the page could be updated!!